Pentax Introduces K-5 DSLR CameraPentax Introduces K-5 DSLR Camera

Pentax K-5 DSLR Camera Front View

Pentax has introduced an upgrade of its prosumer camera that adds full high-definition video recording and a higher resolution sensor. The K-5, a midrange DSLR camera unveiled Monday, is a refresh of last year'sthe K-7. Both cameras are similar on the outside, equipped with the same water- and cold-resistant bodies.

However, on the inside the cameras have some significant differences. The K-5 comes with a 16.3 megapixel CMOS sensor, compared to the K-7's 14.6-megapixel sensor. In addition, the K-5 has a maximum burst rate of 7 frames per second, which beats the K-7's 5.2 fps. Pentax has added full HD recording of 1080p in the K-5, which is much higher than the K-7 720p. The K-5 can record full HD video at 25 fps, where the K-7 could record at 30 fps in the lower resolution mode.

Other differences include the K-5's use of Pentax's new Safox IX+ autofocus system, which contains improvements for taking pictures in low-light environments. Also helping to take pictures under those conditions is a high ISO of 12800 with better noise reduction. The K-7 has a high ISO of 3200.

The K-5 has three high dynamic range imaging modes. HDR in photography is refers to the ability to set a greater dynamic range of luminance between the lightest and darkest areas of an image than in standard digital imaging. The K-5 also creates 14-bit RAW images that can be captured in Adobe's DNG file format. Other features include a top shutter speed of 1/8000 of a second, more special effects filters than the K-7, a 3-inch LCD screen on the back and an HDMI port for moving HD images and video to other devices, such as an HDTV.

The K-5 is scheduled to be available in October for $1,600 for only the body. With lens, the camera will sell for $1,750.

Last month, Canon and Nikon also introduced new DSLR cameras.

Canon's EOS 60D is designed primarily for the advanced amateur and includes a 3-inch diagonal LCD screen that swings out to the side and can be adjusted to a variety of angles for viewing when shooting. The 18-megapixel camera costs $1,099 for only the body, and $1,399 for the body/lens kit.

The Nikon D3100 DSLR is a 14.2-megapixel entry-level DSLR that can capture 720p and 1080p video. The camera comes with an AF-S Nikkor 18-55mm lens and costs $700.

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